Alignment Based Yoga

Join us every Thursday at 6:30 PM! Call to register or schedule a private session today!

Just as Synergy Integrative Health is focused on treating the individual, this style of yoga will guide students through postures at their pace, with a focus on optimal alignment for each student in the class. Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Tension in your neck? Everyday misalignment caused by “forward posture” sitting at a computer, driving, etc, can cause pain and discomfort throughout the body. Our busy days running from one thing to the next can sometimes take our minds from what matters most, causing various discomforts or anxiety.

A yoga practice can help bring mind and body into a more neutral and settled place. From there we feel grounded, steady, and more open to lifeʼs challenges. Yoga means “to yoke,” or “union” of mind, body, and spirit. When we take time to connect all parts of ourselves, we are able to identify our most genuine and joyful self, and from there, are also best prepared to be there for our loved ones.

So what does a class “look” like? In this semi-private yoga setting, the teacher is able to give close attention to each studentʼs needs. Students will be led step by step into poses that will build strength and power, as well as flexibility and opening. The poses you may see in magazines and books are just examples of the possibilities of what yoga has to offer, but is certainly not necessarily the “goal!” The intention is up to you, but from the eyes of the teacher, the classʼs focus will be on studentsʼ individual expressions to their fullest potential. With a focus on alignment and awareness of breath, sessions are highly therapeutic and centering. Questions are encouraged and all levels are welcomed.

Come with curiosity and an open heart and the yoga will help you align with your greatest self.

The Truth About Stress

REALLY? Another stress workshop?

Time and again we hear the importance of managing stress as part of a healthy lifestyle, but do you really know what stress is? Most importantly, do you really know what it is doing to you? Learn what stress is, its effect on your body and health, and walk away with the tools necessary to reduce and manage your stress as part of a healthy lifestyle practice.

Date: Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Time: 6:30-8:00 PM
Location: Synergy Integrative Health
Instructor: Kristin Tomlinson, Certified Health Counselor

Service of the Month: Thai Massage

Q: What is Thai Massage (Nuad Bo-Rarn)?

A: Thai massage is a unique experience in soft tissue manipulation that combines acupressure, breath work, and yoga in one gentle, effective therapy. While its true origins are unknown, it is believed that Thai massage has its roots in the ancient medicine of Indian Ayurvedic practice.

Q: What is the process?

A: Traditional Thai massage is performed on a mat, with the client fully clothed. This allows for the most effective use of the practitioner’s body weight to administer pressure rather than muscular force. The work consists mainly of acupressure along energy lines (Sen*) and points, and a variety of stretching movements.
* Sen lines are reminiscent of the meridians of Acupuncture and the theory of energy flow, however where meridians follow the energy flow to specific organs, Sen follow the form of the body.

Q: Who can benefit from this type of massage?

A: This therapy is beneficial to a wide range of clients*. Because of its effectiveness in inducing deep rest and relaxation, it is beneficial to anyone in need of stress reduction or with stress related disorders. The stretching movements are useful to those who would like to improve on their muscular flexibility.
* Like many therapies, there are some contraindications to consider: it is highly recommended not to receive this therapy during pregnancy, due to the length of time lying on the back. It is also cautionary for clients with any history of circulatory or heart conditions and varicosities. Please advise your practitioner accordingly.

Q: What experience can a client expect from this type of therapy?

A: Clients will vary in their response, depending on their initial condition at the start of the therapy. The client should leave the treatment with a feeling of deep relaxation and an increased sense of natural energy flow, inducing balance and harmony to the body.

Interested in learning more? Call 215-230-7442 to schedule a massage today!